Get a healthy start to the New Year by resolving to take better care of yourself. Begin your healthy journey with the foundations of basic care – health exams and screenings.

Routine health exams and screenings are essential to help maintain wellness and prevent disease and disability. The frequency of your health exams and screenings is based on many factors including your age, gender, medical history, family history, and lifestyle. Being an active member of your health care team is important to ensure you get the most benefit from your healthcare.

Health exams serve to identify problems early. Diagnosing health problems early can increase your treatment options and chances for better health outcomes when they are more easily treatable. Get the most from your physician visits by being prepared. Just like a shopping list, bring a list of questions to discuss with your physician. Click here for a Check-Up Checklist from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Be mindful of any changes you have experienced from your last visit. Of course, any major changes should be reported to your physician immediately. Remember, “early diagnosis” is the key to better health outcomes.

Health screening tests are medical tests recommended based on your age, gender, family history, and current health risks. As with health exams, screening tests help to diagnosis problems early, before you experience any signs or symptoms. Click here to use the myhealthfinder tool from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for a list of recommended health screenings. Bring the list to your next physician visit to discuss what screenings would be appropriate for you.

Depending on your personal health profile, you may be screened for:

• Specific types of cancer (such as breast, prostate, colon, etc.)

• Diabetes

• Hearing and vision loss

• High blood pressure

• High blood cholesterol

• Mental health conditions

• Osteoporosis

Start today! Contact your health care provider and get on the path to a healthier new year.

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